The 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed the Delaware Nation's out-of-state land claim on Thursday.

The tribe, based in Oklahoma, filed suit over land in Pennsylvania. The tribe claimed it owned 315 acres that was deeded to a Delaware/Lenape ancestor in 1733.

But a three-judge panel of the 3rd Circuit disagreed. The court said the tribe lost all of its land, including the 315 acres, under a 1737 deal known as the Walking Purchase.

The tribe sued in hopes of settling for gaming rights. A bill pending in the Senate would bar the acquisition of land for gaming under such circumstances.

Get the Story:
Tribe seeking Easton-area land for casino loses federal appeal (AP 5/4)

3rd Circuit Decision:
Delaware Nation v. Pennsylvania (May 4, 2006)

Lower Court Decision:
Delaware Nation v. Pennsylvania (December 1, 2004)

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